Thyroiditis — VA Disability Rating (DC 7906)
Diagnostic Code 7906 · 38 CFR §4.119
What Is It?
Thyroiditis is inflammation of the thyroid gland. It can be caused by autoimmune disease (Hashimoto thyroiditis is the most common), viral infections, postpartum changes, or radiation exposure. Thyroiditis can cause the thyroid to function normally (euthyroid), produce too much hormone (hyperthyroid phase), or produce too little hormone (hypothyroid phase). Many cases of thyroiditis cycle through these phases — an initial hyperthyroid phase followed by hypothyroidism. Veterans may develop thyroiditis from autoimmune processes triggered by service-related stress, environmental exposures, or radiation exposure during service.
Rating Criteria
| Rating | Criteria |
|---|---|
| 0% | Thyroiditis with normal thyroid function (euthyroid) is rated at 0%. However, if thyroiditis manifests as hyperthyroidism, it is evaluated under DC 7900 (hyperthyroidism). If it manifests as hypothyroidism, it is evaluated under DC 7903 (hypothyroidism). The rating depends entirely on how the thyroiditis affects your thyroid function. |
Evidence Needed
Thyroid function tests (TSH, free T4, free T3) over time showing the pattern of thyroid dysfunction are essential. Thyroid antibody tests (TPO antibodies, thyroglobulin antibodies) confirm autoimmune thyroiditis. Thyroid ultrasound may show inflammation or structural changes. Treatment records document medication needs. If thyroiditis is secondary to radiation exposure or other service-connected factors, include a nexus opinion. Because thyroiditis often progresses through phases, serial lab work over months showing the transition from euthyroid to hyper- or hypothyroid strengthens the claim.
C&P Exam Tips
The key question at the C&P exam is whether your thyroiditis is causing hyperthyroidism, hypothyroidism, or neither. Bring serial thyroid lab results showing your thyroid function over time. If you are currently in a hypothyroid phase requiring medication, describe all symptoms of hypothyroidism. If in a hyperthyroid phase, describe those symptoms. Even if you are currently euthyroid, document the history of thyroid dysfunction — the condition may progress. Describe any neck pain or tenderness from the inflammation itself.
How to File
File VA Form 21-526EZ listing thyroiditis under DC 7906. Include thyroid function tests, antibody tests, and treatment records. If the thyroiditis has progressed to hypothyroidism (most common long-term outcome), file for hypothyroidism under DC 7903 as well. If there was a hyperthyroid phase, document that for evaluation under DC 7900. Provide evidence connecting the thyroiditis to service.
Common Mistakes
Claiming only thyroiditis (DC 7906) when the condition has progressed to hypothyroidism — the hypothyroidism should be claimed under DC 7903 for a higher rating Not getting serial thyroid labs to document the progression from normal function to dysfunction Not understanding that euthyroid thyroiditis is rated at 0% and the real rating comes from the hyper- or hypothyroid manifestation Failing to connect autoimmune thyroiditis to service-related triggers
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between thyroiditis and hypothyroidism?
Thyroiditis is the inflammation of the thyroid gland — it is the underlying disease process. Hypothyroidism is the result — reduced thyroid function. Hashimoto thyroiditis is the most common cause of hypothyroidism. If your thyroiditis has caused hypothyroidism, the hypothyroidism is rated under DC 7903, which provides a more favorable rating than the 0% for euthyroid thyroiditis under DC 7906.
Can thyroiditis cause both hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism?
Yes. Many forms of thyroiditis go through phases. In the early inflammatory phase, stored thyroid hormone is released into the blood, causing temporary hyperthyroidism. As the inflammation damages the gland, it can no longer produce enough hormone, leading to hypothyroidism. Each phase is rated under its respective code — DC 7900 for hyperthyroidism and DC 7903 for hypothyroidism.